Inter Miami striker Lionel Messi reacts after scoring a goal during the second half of an MLS soccer match against the New England Revolution (Lynne Sladky/AP) (Image: Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)
Lionel Messi scored three goals in 12 minutes in a 6-2 demolition of the New England Revolution as Inter Miami broke the Major League Soccer single-season points record.
The Argentine found the net in the 78th, 81st and 89th minutes, marking Inter Miami's 22nd victory of the season.
The Herons also recorded four defeats and eight draws to finish with a record 74 points.
Having already clinched first place in the play-offs, the points record was the only remaining target for Inter Miami, but it looked under threat early on as New England took a 2-0 lead.
That advantage was erased as half-time approached thanks to a quick brace from Luis Suarez.
Messi made an immediate impact when he came on in the second half, allowing Benjamin Cremaschi to give Miami the lead in the 58th minute before sealing the victory with his flurry of late goals.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced on Saturday evening that Inter Miami will participate in the 2025 Club World Cup, which is scheduled to begin in Miami on June 15.
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1964469/lionel-messi-scores-12-minute-hat-trick-inter-miami-break-mls-points-record